A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bonn vs. Brescia for Families, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Bonn or Brescia?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Bonn or Brescia? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Bonn

Bonn is a beautiful, outdoorsy, and lively city. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brescia

Brescia is a authentic, under-rated, and historic city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Bonn and Brescia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Bonn or Brescia?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bonn than Brescia, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Bonn is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere, while Brescia is known for its food and impressive beauty. Bonn is popular for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven. It is also home to The Bonn Minster. Brescia is popular for its historic and archeological sights.

How is Bonn different from Brescia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Brescia and Bonn. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bonn or Brescia?

Bonn
Brescia

Bonn is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Bonn can be an interesting and educational experience. Some of the most popular museums include Haus der Geschichte (history), Beethoven's House, and Kunstmuseum Bonn (art). For architecture check out the Old Town Hall and Bonn Minster. Other landmarks include Poppelsdorf Palace and Schloss Drachenburg.

Brescia offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some great museums and historic sights around town such as the Museum of Art and History, Tempio Capitolino, the Roman Theater, and Duomo Nuovo.


Is the Food Better in Bonn or Brescia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bonn
Brescia

Brescia is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Brescia. Much of the cuisine has its roots in peasant recipes, but many have been incorporated into fine dining and specialty experiences. The dishes come from the countryside and use many local ingredients. Bigoi Col Pestöm (a local pasta), Casoncelli Alla Bresciana (stuffed pasta), and polenta are all favorites in the area.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Bonn. Like much of the food in Germany, you'll find local dishes are hearty and filling. Potatoes and meats are popular ingredients, as are milk, butter, and vegetables. For local flavors try the Rhenish Sauerbraten (veal stew), Reibekuchen (German pancakes), or Christmas Sausages.

Is Bonn or Brescia Better for Nightlife?

Bonn
Brescia

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find good options in both Bonn and Brescia.

If you're looking for night time activities Bonn has a few options to choose from. There are bars and nightclubs around town but even more popular are the cultural events that the city hosts. If nightlife is important to you, try to visit during one of the festivals around town.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Brescia. The city has a number of clubs and bars that make for a fun night out.

Is Bonn or Brescia Better for its Old Town?

Bonn
Brescia

Bonn is well known for its historic old town. However, Brescia does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Bonn to see the historical old town. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming shops. There are also cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat.

Brescia does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Bonn or Brescia?

Bonn
Brescia

If you're looking to go shopping, Bonn and Brescia both offer plenty of very good spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Bonn. A mix of local shops and major chains make shopping fun and easy. Whether you're interested in souvenir gifts or a new outfit, there are countless stores around town.

Brescia is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. It's a small city, but there are a number of fashion brands found around town. Via Gramsci, Corso Magenta, Via Mazzini, and Via X Giornate are among the best shopping streets.

Is Bonn or Brescia Better for Families?

Bonn
Brescia

Bonn is renowned for its family-friendly activities. However, Brescia is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Bonn is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Just outside of the town is the Haribo factory outlet store where you can pick up a number of sweet treats and spend some time exploring with the kids. Another favorite activity for the whole family is a trip to nearby Phantasialand. This is one of the best amusement parks in Germany and it has many rides for teens and younger kids alike. In town, you'll find playgrounds and kid-friendly museums. Kids will also love a visit to Schloss Drachenburg Castle.

For families, Brescia is not always the best place to visit. There are several parks and swimming pools that the kids will enjoy as well as a castle and lots of archeology.

Is Bonn or Brescia Better for Couples?

Bonn
Brescia

With fun activities for couples, both Bonn and Brescia make for a good place to visit.

Bonn is a nice destination for couples. Churches, architecture, and botanical gardens all make this a great couples destination. You can take a cruise down the Rhein or enjoy a meal at one of the best restaurants.

Brescia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's location near Lake Garda and its rich history and plethora of archeological sites make this a nice destination for couples.


Is Bonn or Brescia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bonn
Brescia

Bonn is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Brescia is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Bonn. Many backpackers skip this town, so its a good option for travelers who want to get off the beaten backpacker trail. There are affordable hotels and hostels around town as well as restaurants where you can pick up something cheap to eat.

Brescia is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a particularly popular backpacker destination but there are some affordable guesthouses.

Is Bonn or Brescia Better for Students?

Bonn
Brescia

Bonn is well known for students. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Bonn is a great city to visit as a student. The city has a very international vibe and you'll likely run into people speaking English around town. Job opportunities in the area are good and there are schools that attract students from around the globe.

It's common for students to visit Brescia. This is an affordable and interesting city for students. It's also in a beautiful setting, which makes for a nice experience.

Is Bonn or Brescia Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bonn
Brescia

Bonn is well known for its public transit. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Bonn can move around easily with public transportation. There is a light rail system that includes 9 lines and 64 stations. There are also buses around town. Bonn is connected to the region by convenient commuter trains so it's possible to visit as a day trip.

While Brescia offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses and light rail to help you get around town.


Is Bonn or Brescia a more walkable city?

Bonn
Brescia

Bonn is well known for its walkability. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Bonn is very walkable. The compact old town is easy to explore on foot.

Brescia is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the city are easy to walk around.

For even more information, also check out Is Bonn Worth Visiting? and Is Brescia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Brescia or Bonn?

How long in Bonn or Brescia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Bonn or Brescia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Bonn than Brescia because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bonn, and 1-2 days is enough time in Brescia.

Families should spend more time in Bonn than Brescia. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Bonn, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Bonn than Brescia. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Bonn that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bonn than Brescia if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Bonn.


  • How many days in Bonn or Brescia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bonn 1-3 
    Brescia 1-2

One day in Bonn or Brescia?

In Bonn, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Brescia. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Bonn or Brescia?

In Bonn, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bonn has to offer.

Brescia is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


Five days in Bonn or Brescia?

Bonn is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the undisovered destination of Brescia. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bonn or Brescia?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bonn. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bonn. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

The historic city of Brescia offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Brescia or Bonn?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Bonn is €154, while the average daily cost in Brescia is €144. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Bonn and Brescia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bonn 85
    Brescia 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bonn 170
    Brescia 150
Compare Hotels in Bonn and Brescia

Looking for a hotel in Bonn or Brescia? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Bonn


Hotels in Brescia


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Bonn Hotel Prices and Brescia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bonn 23
    Brescia 19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bonn

Also for Bonn, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Bonn hotels Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) - Departure Private Transfer: $55

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brescia

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brescia:

  • Lake Garda Hills Wine Tasting, Picnic in a vineyard and Transfer: $218

Is it cheaper to fly into Bonn or Brescia?

Prices for flights to both Brescia and Bonn change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Bonn 49
    Brescia 47

Typical Food Prices in Brescia

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Brescia:


  • Dinner at Pizzaria (for 2)
    23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Brescia

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Brescia.

  • Wine Tasting and Dinner/Lunch or Aperitivo in Franciacorta Winery: $32
  • 3 Hour Private Italian Tradition Cooking Class in Brescia: $76
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Brescia with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Desenzano del Garda with Show Cooking: $93
  • Cooking class in a garden: handmade pasta: $113
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Desenzano del Garda: $158
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Brescia: $158

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bonn 34
    Brescia 31

Tours and Activities in Bonn

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Bonn.

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Free Walking Tour Bonn - City Center: $3.21
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $4.28
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.02
  • Bonn Self Guided City Walking Tour with Audio Guide: $11
  • Scavenger Hunt and City Highlights Walking Tour: $11
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Autumn tours with a live guide: $20
  • 1.5-Hour River Cruise on the Rhine: $20

Tours and Activities in Brescia

Here are a few actual costs in Brescia for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 3 Hours Walking Tour with a Drink in Brescia Italy: $71
  • Beautiful Brescia - Guided Walking Tour: $402
  • Beautiful Brescia - Guided Walking Tour: $223
  • Brescia Private Walking Tour: $114
  • Brescia Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide by a Local: $4.19
  • Brescia’s Historic Heart: A Family Exploration Tour: $288
  • Brescia’s Yuletide Charm: A Festive Walking Tour: $386
  • Brescia’s Yuletide Charm: A Festive Walking Tour: $197
  • Digital Guide made by a Local for your walking tour: $6.42
  • Guided Christmastime Walking Tour: $719
  • Private Guided Walking Tour: $118
  • CSTRents - Brescia Segway PT Authorized Tour: $180

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bonn 23
    Brescia 23

Sample the Local Flavors in Brescia

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brescia:

  • Wine Tour and Tasting of Lugana Wines in Desenzano: $49
  • Franciacorta: Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour with Snacks: $80
  • Vineyard Tour: Top Franciacorta Wine Tasting: $82
  • E-Bike tour and Wine tasting from Desenzano Inland: $92
  • Self-guided Wine tour in Franciacorta, Full-Day Experience with Lunch: $147
  • From Milan: Lake Iseo, Bergamo & Franciacorta Wine Tour: $738
  • VIP Experience to Lake Iseo and Franciacorta Wine Tasting: $1,604


When comparing the travel costs between Bonn and Brescia, we can see that Bonn is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Bonn Expensive? and Is Brescia Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Bonn or Brescia?

Bonn has a larger population, and is about 67% larger than the population of Brescia. When comparing the sizes of Bonn and Brescia, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Bonn or Brescia?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Bonn or Brescia in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bonn as well as Brescia. Many travelers come to Bonn for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Brescia in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Bonn is cooler than Brescia in the summer. The daily temperature in Bonn averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Brescia fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Brescia. In the summer, Bonn often gets less sunshine than Brescia. Bonn gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brescia receives 286 hours of full sun.

Bonn usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Brescia. Bonn gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bonn 19°C (66°F) 
    Brescia 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Brescia in the Autumn?

Both Brescia and Bonn are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Bonn in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Brescia for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Bonn is cooler than Brescia. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bonn in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Brescia averages at about 14°C (58°F).

Bonn usually receives less sunshine than Brescia during autumn. Bonn gets 109 hours of sunny skies, while Brescia receives 137 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bonn usually receives less rain than Brescia. Bonn gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bonn 12°C (53°F) 
    Brescia 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Brescia in the Winter?

Both Brescia and Bonn during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Bonn for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Brescia because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Brescia can be very cold. Bonn can be very cold during winter. In January, Bonn is generally much warmer than Brescia. Daily temperatures in Bonn average around 3°C (37°F), and Brescia fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Bonn often gets less sunshine than Brescia. Bonn gets 45 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brescia receives 98 hours of full sun.

Bonn usually gets less rain in January than Brescia. Bonn gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bonn 3°C (37°F) 
    Brescia 1°C (35°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Brescia in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bonn and Brescia. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Brescia this time of year.

Bonn is cooler than Brescia in the spring. The daily temperature in Bonn averages around 10°C (50°F) in April, and Brescia fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Bonn usually receives less sunshine than Brescia during spring. Bonn gets 145 hours of sunny skies, while Brescia receives 169 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bonn usually receives less rain than Brescia. Bonn gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bonn 10°C (50°F) 
    Brescia 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Brescia and Bonn

Bonn Brescia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 1°C (35°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in) 9°C (47°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
May 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 21°C (71°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 24°C (75°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 23°C (73°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 20°C (67°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 14°C (58°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 3°C (38°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)